Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary Tract Infections: When to Investigate Further
Most urinary infections resolve with a short course of antibiotics. Recurrent or unusual infections benefit from a structured urological assessment to identify treatable underlying causes.
Written and clinically reviewed by
Mr Haitham Teleb
Consultant Urological Surgeon · MBBCh, MRCS, MSc, FRCS (Urol)
- Reading time
- 6 min read
- Date published
- 1 November 2025
- Last reviewed
- 1 June 2026
When to investigate
Referral is recommended for men with a first infection, women with recurrent infections, infections associated with fever or blood, or infections that fail to clear with treatment.
How they are assessed
Assessment includes urine culture, imaging of the urinary tract and, where appropriate, a flexible cystoscopy.
Preventing recurrence
Preventive strategies include adequate hydration, post-coital voiding, vaginal oestrogen for post-menopausal women, and, in selected cases, low-dose prophylactic antibiotics or non-antibiotic preventives.
Frequently asked questions
This article provides general information only and does not replace individual medical advice. For personalised guidance, please arrange a private consultation.
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FRCS (Urol)
Fellowship-trained consultant
5.0 patient rating
Verified private reviews
Seen within days
Same-week appointments
All major insurers
BUPA · AXA · Aviva · Vitality · WPA